National Volunteer Week


Something for Everyone

“Every single moment that our volunteers help us makes a difference. We couldn’t do our work without you”, Dr Liz Walker.

National Volunteer Week (20 – 26 May 2024) is an annual celebration recognising the vital support that volunteers provide to their communities. At RSPCA Victoria, our volunteers are essential to the care we’re able to provide to animals in need.

The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is ‘Something for Everyone’ to recognise the diverse passions and talents everyone brings to the act of volunteering.

This is particularly relevant for us with the roles and contributions of our 1,500 volunteers all incredibly varied and unique. Whether it is supporting the daily care and enrichment of shelter animals, providing respite from shelter life through foster care, assisting customers in our op shops, helping at events like our upcoming Million Paws Walk, in many administrative areas across the organisation or much more, each and every one is making a difference.

To our volunteers – thank you for all you contribute to our vision in ending cruelty to all animals. Your time and skills are invaluable to our organisation, and we (and our animals) are fortunate to have your support. It is thanks to your continued dedication, compassion, and patience that we’ve remained operational for over 150 years, providing high-quality care and support to animals in need.

Please join us in celebrating the good will of RSPCA Victoria’s incredible volunteers by watching this special video.

Meet some of our amazing volunteers!

Abbey

Prosecution administration volunteer at Burwood for over one year

“I am proud to be a part of the prosecutions team and my role in helping bring justice against those who harm animals.”

Anna

Livestock and horse volunteer at Peninsula for over 8 years

“Volunteering is good for my mental and physical health… it’s my happy place.”

Dr Carole

Board member and cattery shelter vet at Burwood and has volunteered with RSPCA Victoria for 27 years

“Cats are my passion in life, but I also enjoy working with a very dedicated and caring team of people. It’s a lovely place to volunteer.”

Elizabeth

Clinic volunteer at Burwood for over 20 years

“Animals give us such unconditional love that it’s great to have a chance to give a little back.”

Lisa

Op shop volunteer for over one year

“What warms my heart is being around likeminded people that want to prevent animal cruelty”.

Narelle

Foster carer for over 4 years

“Whilst fostering allows animals to be cared for in a loving environment, it has also helped my family learn empathy and compassion for animals.”

Peter

Maintenance volunteer at Peninsula for over 5 years

“I enjoy the camaraderie – it’s fun to come here and if something’s broken, as a maintenance volunteer, I get to fix it!”